TOWARDS SELF-ACTUALISATION: A REHABILITATION PROGRAM MODEL FOR HOMELESSNESS IN KUALA LUMPUR

Homelessness in Kuala Lumpur remains visible despite numerous supports and initiatives from governments and NGOs. Current rehabilitation programs are providing short-term relief, but how can these models help the homeless achieve self-actualisation? The objectives are to explore how current rehabilitation programs address the various needs of the homeless and to identify the gap between the charity model and the co-production model in providing a long-term, integrated approach. Adopting Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory as a guide, this study examines the rehabilitation needs of homeless individuals in transit centres around Kuala Lumpur. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, field observations and document analysis for a qualitative method. Results from this study indicated that to achieve self-actualisation, rehabilitation should reintegrate basic needs, psychological needs, self-fulfilment needs, and transition needs. The charity model, which emphasises short-term relief but offers limited long-term impact, and the co-production model, which promotes empowerment and long-term outcomes, are the two programs that support the homeless journey towards self-actualisation. This paper proposes a hybrid rehabilitation model that integrates two existing programs and additional structured pathways, aiming to provide continuous support in shaping a more inclusive policy and enhancing rehabilitation practices in reducing homelessness in Kuala Lumpur.